Join our campaign to name Dubbo's new bridge after the First Mayor and "Father of Dubbo" James Samuels.

James Samuels (1835-1927) was Dubbo's first mayor and a prominent leader, whose contributions to the development and prosperity of Dubbo have left an indelible mark on the town's history.

James Samuels was a man of great public spirit and a generous character.
He not only contributed to the town's infrastructure and development, but also dedicated his life to the welfare of its residents including Indigenous people and the poor.

SO WHO IS JAMES SAMUELS:

1867 – 1927 - A Founder and Benefactor of Dubbo Base Hospital. On the Board of the Hospital, a Member, Trustee - 60 Years Service. Donated three blocks of his land to the hospital

1872 - A Founder of the Municipality of Dubbo – resulting in the proclamation of the Town. First Mayor of Dubbo and an Alderman of 11 years

1871 -A Founder of the Agricultural Society – North Western Pastoral and Agricultural Association. Vice President and Chairman. Today it’s known as Dubbo Show Committee

1863-1927 - Founder of Holy Trinity Anglican Church on Brisbane St, Dubbo. Chief Warden and Trustee. 64 Years Service

1857 – 1873 -Dubbo Public School Board - one of the first Members. Laid foundations for first Public School to be erected in Dubbo

1868 Water in Dubbo - Samuels was the first to identify and make a study of underground water aquifers and artesian springs in the Dubbo Basin.

and so much more...

The proposed location of the James Samuels Bridge is particularly significant. Historical records indicate that the majority of the properties along River Street in the 1870s were owned by Samuels and his family, making the site a unique opportunity to honour his memory.

Naming the bridge after Samuels aligns with the tradition of commemorating individuals who have played vital roles in Dubbo’s history. The L.H. Ford Bridge honours a veteran alderman and serial Mayor known as "Mr. Dubbo," while the Emile Serisier Bridge is named after the "Founder of Dubbo." It seems only fitting that the new bridge should be named after the "Grand Old Man" and "Father of Dubbo," James Samuels.

The campaign invites the community to support this initiative and ensure that James Samuels' legacy is appropriately honoured